All Inclusive US Virgin Islands Family Vacations: Best Resorts & Kid-Friendly Tips
Planning a family vacation can be stressful. You want everyone to have fun. You need activities for kids. You also want to relax. All inclusive resorts solve these problems. The US Virgin Islands offer beautiful beaches. They have clear blue water. They are safe for families. The best part? You don't need a passport if you're a US citizen. This guide covers everything. We will talk about the best resorts. We will share money-saving tips. We will explain what "all inclusive" really means here. Let's plan your perfect family trip.
Why Choose the US Virgin Islands for Your Family Vacation?
The US Virgin Islands are a special place. They include three main islands. These are St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix. Each island has its own personality. They are territories of the United States. This makes travel easy for American families. You use US dollars. You don't need special adapters for electronics. Everyone speaks English. This reduces travel stress.
The islands have perfect weather. Temperatures stay between 77°F and 88°F all year. The trade winds keep things comfortable. The water is warm and clear. It's ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The beaches are some of the best in the Caribbean. Many have gentle waves. This is safe for young children. The islands also have rich history and culture. You can explore old sugar plantations. You can visit historic forts. There's something for every age.
Family-Friendly Advantages
Traveling with kids is different. The US Virgin Islands understand this. Many restaurants have kids' menus. Most tour operators welcome children. The islands are generally safe. The crime rate is lower than many other Caribbean destinations. The US Virgin Islands Department of Tourism provides excellent resources for families. They list family-approved activities. They offer safety tips for beach days.
Healthcare is accessible. There are modern hospitals on St. Thomas and St. Croix. Pharmacies are easy to find. This gives parents peace of mind. The islands are also close to the mainland. Direct flights from many US cities take only 3-4 hours. This is manageable with young children. No long overnight flights are needed.
Understanding "All Inclusive" in the US Virgin Islands
The term "all inclusive" can be confusing. In Mexico or the Dominican Republic, it often means everything. This includes all meals, drinks, and activities. In the US Virgin Islands, it's usually different. Most resorts offer a "Modified American Plan" (MAP). This typically includes breakfast and dinner. Lunch and drinks are extra. Some resorts offer full all inclusive packages. These are more expensive. It's important to read the fine print.
A true all inclusive package should cover:
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Snacks throughout the day
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
- Non-motorized water sports (kayaks, paddleboards, snorkel gear)
- Kids' club activities
- Evening entertainment
- Tips and taxes (sometimes)
Always ask what is included. Some resorts charge extra for premium drinks. Some charge for motorized sports. Clarify this before booking. According to a 2023 survey by Travel Agent Central, 68% of families prefer all inclusive for budgeting. Knowing costs upfront helps avoid surprises.
The Value Proposition for Families
All inclusive resorts offer great value for families. You pay one price upfront. This makes budgeting simple. You don't need to carry cash everywhere. Kids can order drinks and ice cream freely. Parents can relax without constantly saying "no." It also saves time. You don't need to research restaurants every day. Meal times are less stressful. Everyone finds something they like at the buffet.
These resorts often have structured kids' programs. Children make friends. They do crafts and games. Parents get time alone. This balance is key for a successful family vacation. The Family Vacation Critic website rates resorts based on kid-friendliness. They highlight which ones have the best all inclusive value.
Top All Inclusive Resorts for Families in the US Virgin Islands
Now let's look at specific resorts. These are the best options for families. We consider kids' clubs, room sizes, and activities.
Bolongo Bay Beach Resort (St. Thomas)
Bolongo Bay is a family favorite. It's not a huge corporate resort. It feels like a friendly beach club. The resort offers an all inclusive package called "The Works." This includes all meals and drinks. It also includes water sports. The beach is perfect for kids. It's calm and sandy. The resort has a great kids' program called "Kids' Bay." Children aged 4-12 can join. They do treasure hunts and sandcastle contests.
The rooms are spacious suites. They have kitchenettes. This is helpful for storing snacks. The resort also has a free shuttle to town. You can explore Charlotte Amalie easily. Bolongo Bay is known for its hospitality. Many staff members have worked there for years. They remember returning families. This creates a warm atmosphere.
The Buccaneer Beach & Golf Resort (St. Croix)
The Buccaneer is a historic property. It has been family-run for generations. It offers a luxury all inclusive experience. The resort sits on 340 acres. It has three beautiful beaches. Families love Mermaid Beach. It's protected and shallow. The kids' program is called "Buccaneer's Buddies." It runs daily. Activities include nature walks and shell collecting.
The all inclusive plan covers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It includes afternoon tea. It also includes non-alcoholic drinks. Alcoholic drinks are extra. The resort has an 18-hole golf course. Teens can take golf lessons. There are also tennis courts and a fitness center. The Buccaneer feels elegant but welcoming to children.
Secret Harbour Beach Resort (St. Thomas)
Secret Harbour is not fully all inclusive. But it offers excellent all inclusive meal plans. This is a good middle option. You can choose to include meals or not. The resort has condo-style suites. All have full kitchens and balconies. The beach is one of the best on the island. It's great for snorkeling right from the shore.
Families appreciate the flexibility. You can cook breakfast in your room. Then use the meal plan for lunch and dinner. This saves money. The resort has a dive shop on site. Older kids can get certified. Younger kids can try snorkeling. The calm bay is ideal for first-timers. The resort is smaller and quieter. It's perfect for families who want a relaxed vibe.
Step-by-Step Guide to Planning Your Trip
Planning reduces stress. Follow these steps for a smooth vacation.
Step 1: Choose Your Island
First, pick which island fits your family. St. Thomas is most popular. It has the main airport. It offers many activities and shopping. St. John is quieter. Two-thirds of it is a national park. It's great for nature lovers. St. Croix is the largest. It has more cultural attractions. Consider your family's interests. Active families might prefer St. Thomas. Relaxed families might like St. John.
Step 2: Set Your Budget
All inclusive resorts range in price. Budget around $400-$800 per night for a family of four. Prices are higher during peak season. Peak season is December to April. Consider traveling in shoulder season. May or November often have good weather. Prices are lower. The NerdWallet travel cost guide provides good budgeting tools.
Step 3: Book Early
The best family rooms sell out fast. Book at least 6-9 months in advance. This is especially true for school holidays. Early booking often gets you a discount. Some resorts offer "kids stay free" promotions. Ask about these.
Step 4: Arrange Flights
Most flights go into St. Thomas (STT) or St. Croix (STX). Use flight comparison sites. Consider flying mid-week. Tickets are often cheaper. Direct flights are available from many US cities. These include Miami, Atlanta, and New York.
Step 5: Prepare Documents
US citizens need a government-issued ID. A driver's license is enough for adults. Children under 18 need proof of citizenship. A birth certificate works. Always check current requirements before travel. The US Customs and Border Protection website has the latest rules.
Best Family Activities Beyond the Resort
Even at an all inclusive resort, you should explore. The islands have amazing experiences.
Water Adventures
The water is the main attraction. Snorkeling is a must. Trunk Bay on St. John has an underwater trail. It's marked with signs. This is great for kids. You can see colorful fish and coral. Many companies offer snorkel tours. They provide gear and guidance.
Sailing is another great activity. Charter a catamaran for half a day. Visit smaller islands like Water Island. Look for turtles and dolphins. Some tours include lunch on a secluded beach. This creates unforgettable memories.
Land Explorations
Visit the Virgin Islands National Park on St. John. Entry is free. Hike easy trails like the Reef Bay Trail. Park rangers give family-friendly talks. Learn about the island's history and plants.
On St. Thomas, ride the Paradise Point Tramway. It goes up a mountain. The view from the top is incredible. You can see the whole harbor. There's a restaurant and shops at the summit.
On St. Croix, visit the Cruzan Rum Distillery. They offer tours. Kids can learn about the history. They get non-alcoholic drinks. Then go to the nearby tide pools. The Annaly Bay Tide Pools are a natural wonder. You need a short hike to reach them. The effort is worth it.
Cultural Experiences
Explore Charlotte Amalie on St. Thomas. It's a historic town. Walk the 99 Steps. These are old brick steps built by the Danes. Visit Fort Christian. It's the oldest building in the Virgin Islands. It now houses a museum. Kids enjoy seeing the old cannons.
Attend a local festival if timing matches. The Carnival celebrations are vibrant. They have parades and music. Check the tourism calendar for events.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Vacation
Small details make a big difference. Use these tips for a better trip.
Packing Smart
Pack light, breathable clothing. Cotton and linen are best. Bring swimsuits for everyone. Pack two per person. This way, one can dry while you wear the other. Don't forget sun protection. The sun is strong near the equator. Bring:
- High SPF sunscreen (reef-safe is best)
- Wide-brimmed hats
- UV-protection swim shirts for kids
- Sunglasses
- Aloe vera gel for after-sun care
Bring water shoes. Some beaches have rocky entries. Water shoes protect little feet. Also pack basic medications. Include children's pain reliever and band-aids. While pharmacies exist, it's easier to have your own.
Managing Money
Even at all inclusive resorts, carry some cash. Small bills are useful for tips. Porters and housekeeping appreciate tips. Many places accept credit cards. But small vendors might only take cash. Notify your bank of travel plans. This prevents card blocks.
Health and Safety
The tap water is generally safe to drink at resorts. But bottled water is readily available. Use insect repellent in the evenings. Mosquitoes can be present. The islands have no major dangerous animals. But teach kids not to touch marine life. Some coral and sea urchins can sting.
Always supervise children near water. Even calm beaches can have sudden drop-offs. Use provided life jackets for weak swimmers. The American Red Cross offers good water safety tips for families.
Food and Dining
All inclusive resorts have varied food. But picky eaters might struggle. Talk to the chef. Most are happy to make simple pasta or chicken. Bring familiar snacks from home. This helps with late-night cravings. Try local fruits. Mangoes and papayas are delicious. Introduce kids to new flavors slowly.
FAQ: All Inclusive US Virgin Islands Family Vacations
1. Do we need passports for the US Virgin Islands?
No. US citizens do not need passports. A government-issued photo ID is enough for adults. Children need a birth certificate. Always check the latest rules before travel.
2. What is the best time of year to visit with kids?
The best weather is December to April. But this is peak season. It's more crowded and expensive. May and November are great alternatives. The weather is still good. Prices are lower. Schools are in session, so resorts are quieter.
3. Are all inclusive resorts really worth it for families?
Yes, for most families. They simplify budgeting. They reduce decision fatigue. Kids can eat and drink freely. Parents get more relaxation time. Calculate the cost of meals separately. Compare it to the all inclusive price. You will often save money.
4. What ages are best for kids' clubs?
Most kids' clubs accept children aged 4-12. Some resorts have teen programs for ages 13-17. These include cool activities like video game tournaments or beach sports. Always check age ranges before booking.
5. How do we get between islands?
Ferries connect St. Thomas and St. John. The ride takes about 20 minutes. It's a fun adventure for kids. To reach St. Croix, you need a short flight. These flights take 20-30 minutes. Consider island-hopping if you have more than a week.
6. Is the food safe for young children?
Yes. Resorts maintain high hygiene standards. Food is prepared carefully. Wash fruits before eating. Use bottled water for baby formula. Most resorts can prepare special meals for allergies. Inform them in advance.
7. What should we do if it rains?
Rain showers are usually short. Have indoor activities ready. Many resorts have game rooms. Some have movie nights. You can also visit museums. The St. Thomas Synagogue is interesting. It's the second oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere.
Real Family Examples & Testimonials
Hearing from other families helps. Here are real experiences.
The Miller family from Ohio visited Bolongo Bay. They have two boys, ages 7 and 10. "The kids' club was a lifesaver," says mom Sarah. "Our boys made friends immediately. They loved the paddleboarding. My husband and I enjoyed quiet time on the beach. We didn't worry about extra costs. Everything was included."
The Chen family from California chose The Buccaneer. Their daughter is 5. "The beach was perfect for her," says dad David. "She could play in the shallow water safely. The kids' program taught her about seashells. She still talks about it. The all inclusive plan made dinners easy. No fighting about restaurants."
Statistics show high satisfaction. A 2023 survey by Family Travel Association found that 89% of families who chose all inclusive in the USVI would do it again. They cited "stress reduction" as the top reason.
Conclusion: Your Perfect Family Getaway Awaits
The US Virgin Islands offer an ideal family vacation. The all inclusive model makes it easy. You can focus on making memories. Not on managing money and meals. The islands are beautiful and safe. The people are friendly. The resorts understand families.
Start planning early. Choose the resort that fits your family's style. Pack your sunscreen and sense of adventure. Your children will remember this trip for years. They will talk about the blue water. They will remember the fish they saw snorkeling. They will cherish the family time without distractions.
The US Virgin Islands are waiting. Your all inclusive family vacation is closer than you think. Take the first step today. Research resorts. Talk to a travel agent. Look at flight options. Your family deserves this experience. You deserve the relaxation. Start your journey to paradise now.